Sunspots (Solar Lentigenes)
AKA age spots, senile freckles or liver spots
Sunspots are benign (harmless) patches of hyperpigmented (darkened) skin caused by exposure to UV radiation (sunlight). UV exposure causes the melanocyte cell to produce more melanin (pigment), which is then transferred to skin cells.
Sunspots are flat, well-defined patches that can be round, oval, or irregular in shape. The colour can vary from light tan to dark brown or black and range in size from one millmetre to several centimetres. They may be slightly scaly.
Sunspots typically are found on sun-exposed sites, particularly the face or back of the hands. They tend to be more prominent in ligh- skinned individuals and are very common in individuals over 40, due to the effects of accumulated UV exposure over time.
Sunspots are typically asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause irritation, itching or discomfort.
Over time, sunspots may turn into seborrhoeic keratosis, which is a local thickening of keratinocytes within the lesion. They may also become inflamed and then are called lichenoid keratoses or lichen-planus keratoses.
The most important method of prevention is protecting the skin from UV exposure with the use of sunscreen, protective clothing (hat/sunglasses, UV shirts, etc.) and avoiding the use of tanning beds.
Treatment options
Topicals – consistent daily use of high-quality skincare products is essential.
vitamin C – the Lightener/brightener/tightener! (L-ascorbic acid in its active form, i.e. not yellow/orange or oxidized)
exfoliants – AHA/BHA
retinol (reduces discoloration, improves tone and texture and increases skin turnover)
lightening agents (hydroquinone, white shitake mushroom, licorice root extract, arbutin, kojic acid)
sunscreen with minimum 30 SPF
Book a consultation at Midwest Laser Centre for guidance on daily skincare with clinically proven ingredients to help with melasma. We carry AlumierMD skin care, which is Canadian, clean, and is committed to skincare science and combining clinically proven ingredients with advanced technologies that deliver transformative results.
In-Clinic Treatments
Chemical peels are helpful in reducing pigmentation and can be an integral part of a treatment plan in combination with daily skincare.
Nd:Yag laser treatments target pigment (melanin) specifically and are an excellent option to treat sunspots. The laser is highly precise and effective for targeting melanin pigment with minimal damage to surrounding skin.